Isodon japonicus

Family: Lamiaceae or Labiatae

What it is like

Isodon japonicus is a PERENNIAL growing to 1 m (3ft 3in). The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Height (m): 1

Where it is found

Hills, thickets and valleys from sea level to 2100 metres.

E. Asia - China, Japan, Korea.

Conservation Status:

Countries/locations it is found in

How it is used

Food

Rating: 1

Young leaves - cooked.

Medicine

Rating: 1

Used medicinally in the treatment of stomach cancer.

Cancer: Used in the treatment of cancer.

Other

Rating:

How it is grown

We have almost no information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain, though judging by its native range it should succeed outdoors in most parts of this country. See the plants native habitat for ideas on the conditions it will require.

Propagating it: Seed - we have no information on this species but suggest sowing the seed in a cold frame in the spring. Only just cover the seed. Prick out the seedlings into individual pots when they are large enough to handle and grow them on in the cold frame for their first winter. Plant them out into their permanent positions in the spring. Division in the spring might be possible.

Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade;

Habit: Perennial

Hardiness:

Growth:

Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)

Shade: Semi-shade, no shade

Moisture: Moist

Things to keep in mind

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

P. buergeri. P. glaucocalyx japonicus. P. maximowiczii. Ocimum rugosum. Scutellaria japonica.